A Historic Department Store in England Was Just Transformed Into a Chic Hotel With 101 Suites and a Rooftop Bar

Boswells, Oxford’s historic family-run department store dating back 280 years, has been transformed into a chic luxury hotel, which made its debut on May 14.

Spread over seven stories, the 101-room property has two interconnected buildings on Broad Street. It pampers guests to a range of modern facilities like a spa, a rooftop bar, a restaurant, and two bars, all largely influenced by the buildings’ historic past and surroundings.

Conceived by Reef Group and EQ Group, The Store’s interior design hints at Boswells by combining original features with modern interpretations. For example, the skylights from the store were recycled as flooring for the restaurant; the open-floor design is divided into smaller spaces with a distinct feel similar to a department store; and the signature scent is inspired by the store’s lobby, blending leathery notes, sandalwood, and musk. Travelers will also find a lot of local references throughout the property, such as custom patterns and furniture that draw on Oxford’s rich history and beautiful cityscape.

The rooms are a harmonious blend of timeless aesthetics and bold touches, such as velvet headboards and paneled walls, while oversized windows allow lush city views to peek in.

At the signature restaurant, Treadwell, guests can dine on “untraditionally British” cuisine, like creamy butter chicken curry with chili-infused potatoes and makhani jus. The eatery’s name and its dining concept of offering British classics with a playful twist were inspired by Treadwell’s Passage, a narrow street infamous for its dodgy reputation, which eventually became a part of Boswells.

The hotel is home to two bars. There’s a brightly lit lobby-level space with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out on Broad Street. There’s also a chic rooftop terrace with stunning city views and a very extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails that nod to the building’s past and Oxford’s history and most prominent characters.

Lastly, guests can escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the spa, which boasts four treatment rooms, a steam room, a sauna, and a relaxation lounge. The hotel has partnered with British skincare brand Oskia for a number of face and body therapies.

You can learn more or book your stay at The Store on thestoreoxford.com.